ABSTRACT

AACHEN (AIX-LA-CHAPELLE) The most westerly city in Germany is situated in NORDRHEINWESTFALEN close to the Belgian and Dutch borders (dialling code 02 41, postal area code 52...). Aachen has played an important role in Germany's history: after 794 it became the principal seat of the Emperor Charlemagne (Karl der Große), and German kings were crowned in the cathedral between 936 and 1531. The city's magnificent cathedral with its DOMSCHATZKAMMER has been made a UNESCO world heritage site. Aachen's annual Karlsfest is held on 31 January each year in honour of Charlemagne, an international equestrian competition is held at the beginning of June, and the Stadtfest with theatre, music and pantomime takes place in September.